Space Environment and Effects - 675.621

This course will introduce and explore analysis, design, and verification methods for the space environment in general and radiation and plasma environments in particular. Intended as a practical complement to 675.751, Space Weather and Space Systems, this course will focus on mission requirements definition, design features, analyses and ground testing, state-of-the-art engineering models / tools, and national / international standards associated with the design and operation of modern high reliability space systems. Design and operational impacts will consider Total Ionizing Dose (TID), Total Non-Ionizing Dose (TNID), Single Event Effects (SEE), spacecraft charging, material outgassing, atomic oxygen, and Micrometeoroids / Orbital Debris (MMOD). All phases of a program lifecycle will be discussed – from environment definition through operational anomalies and anomaly attribution. Lectures, journal reading, and homework assignments will prepare engineers to quantify and assess risk as well as mitigate space environmental effects. A final project will consider a more detailed analysis of a system of interest to the student.

Course Prerequisite(s)

Completion of EN.675.600 Systems Engineering for Space or with approval of the instructor.